Historic moment for reconciliation in our community
Published on 29 May 2015
Mildura Rural City Council last night became one of the largest organisations in our region to formally adopt a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
The RAP program, which was developed by Reconciliation Australia, helps organisations to develop business plans which enhance and build on relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and all other Australians.
Arts and Culture portfolio Councillor Jill Joslyn said the development of the RAP is something the whole community should be proud of as it reflects how far we have come in terms of our understanding and respect of local Indigenous culture.
“Council’s RAP sets out specifically Council’s commitment to developing relationships with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through mutual respect, inclusiveness, equity and cultural awareness,” Cr Joslyn explained.
“It looks at everything from how we as an organisation can build on and further develop our already strong relationships and how Council can increase the opportunities for Aboriginal people to participate socially and economically in the wider community.
“This is a collaborative plan that takes into account the local cultural, economic and social landscape and looks to find solutions to balance all these aspects and have the best outcomes for the whole community,” Cr Joslyn said.
While the plan was formally adopted last night, it will be launched on Wednesday 3 June during National Reconciliation Week before the community Walk for Reconciliation.
Chair of Council’s Aboriginal Action Committee, Norsiyah Mokak said while the adoption of the RAP is very significant, the next step is to see the actions in the plan become reality.
“We see this as a major step forward in Council’s ongoing commitment towards Reconciliation,” Ms Mokak said. “Now the plans are in place, we’re keen to see these put into practice and to see tangible outcomes for the whole community.”
Council first began work on the RAP in 2014 with Reconciliation Australia and since then, has coordinated a working group with the aim of developing a plan to find ways for Council to work more closely with local Aboriginal residents.
The RAP working group includes Councillors, Council staff and members of the Aboriginal Action Committee and is now available online at www.mildura.vic.gov.au
ENDS
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